You don’t have to join a research vessel or patrol the coastline to protect the ocean—sometimes, all it takes is checking into the right hotel. Across the globe, eco-forward beach resorts are letting guests kick back in style and make a real difference. Curious how your next stay could help heal the sea? Start here.
The Racha, Thailand
After the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, this resort joined forces with the Reef Ball Foundation to help bring the reef back to life. Special concrete balls were placed underwater to support coral growth, and guests can now see the reef recovering and learn how it’s done.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, French Polynesia
Sustainability here is built into every detail. One highlight is the Biorock project, which helps coral grow using soft electrical currents and reef-shaped frames. Over at the lagoonarium, guests can lend a hand by trimming coral fragments and working alongside marine biologists in real-time reef care.
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, Australia
On Lady Elliot Island, reef preservation is central to the staycation experience. Located in a Green Zone, eco-tourists snorkel with over 1,200 species. They also help monitor reef health through programs like Reef Check and CoralWatch, contributing valuable data to ongoing conservation efforts.
The Fortress Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka
Some local fishermen collect turtle eggs to sell, but The Fortress offers a better option. The resort buys the eggs and raises them at its Koggala hatchery. If you visit between October and April, you’ll have the chance to help release baby turtles back into the wild.
Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel, Mauritius
Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel works closely with the Marine Discovery Centre to support reef protection and marine research. Guests can explore sea life through glass-bottom boat tours and deepen their understanding of local ecosystems inside the Marine Conservation Area, all while enjoying a peaceful, oceanfront stay.
Misool Eco Resort, Indonesia
This private island resort lies within a 1,220 sq km protected marine zone. Here, travelers can join coral restoration dives and explore vibrant reef systems. More than a luxury stay, Misool supports marine conservation through its foundation and uses only reclaimed wood for construction.
Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort, Mauritius
At Heritage Le Telfair, guests are invited to care for the ocean in tangible ways. Partnering with Reef Conservation Mauritius, a nonprofit focused on marine protection, they help plant coral on artificial reefs and join workshops on how coral and seagrass support ocean health and biodiversity.
Jumeirah Thanda Island, Tanzania
What’s better than a private island escape? One that helps save the sea. Jumeirah Thanda Island invites guests to take part in turtle rehabilitation and coral protection, working with local experts. Add in marine lessons and sunshine, and you’ve got a vacation that actually makes a difference.
Turtle Inn, Belize
Guests here do more than sip cocktails by the sea. They suit up for eco-dives to remove invasive lionfish and participate in regular beach cleanups. Back on land, the resort partners with the Crocodile Research Coalition to deepen its marine conservation impact.
Gayana Marine Resort, Malaysia
Every moment at Gayana Marine Resort links back to ocean care. Coral planting offers a hands-on start, followed by workshops that explain reef recovery in action. Together, these efforts help bring endangered giant clams back to local waters, led by the Reef Regeneration Program.
Pimalai Resort & Spa, Thailand
At Pimalai, the reef’s revival starts with the return of clownfish to their anemone homes near Koh Haa. But don’t swim away just yet—there’s coral to regrow. With coral propagation programs in full swing, rebuilding the reef turns into a splashy, purposeful part of the stay.
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, Mozambique
Helping the ocean is part of the experience at Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort. Guests join coral planting and beach cleanup efforts to support African Parks’ mission. And when the work’s done, the clear waters and rich marine life nearby make the perfect setting for guilt-free exploring.
Six Senses Laamu, Maldives
Restoring reefs becomes part of the stay at this island hideaway. At the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning (SHELL), people take part in coral fertilization and reseeding. Arrive during coral spawning season, and you’ll have a front-row seat to one of the ocean’s most elusive natural events.
Nuarro Luxury Eco Lodge, Mozambique
At Nuarro, guests help preserve more than memories. Conservation projects and a protected no-take zone show how the eco-lodge puts sustainability into motion. With local programs at its core, the lodge strengthens Mozambique’s coastline to bring up an immersive experience.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji
Conservation and comfort go hand in hand at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. Guests snorkel with marine experts and learn about ocean preservation through immersive activities. Coral restoration also plays a key role, making each stay a balance of tropical escape and meaningful engagement.
